Ukraine awaits E.U. candidate decision; leaders prepare for long war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky framed the upcoming week as one of the most important in his country’s more than three decades of independence, as it awaits a decision from the European Council on its candidate status for European Union membership.

“I think it is obvious to everyone that since 1991 there have been few such fateful decisions for Ukraine as we expect now,” Zelensky said in a Sunday evening address. “And I am convinced that only a positive decision meets the interests of the whole of Europe.”

Last week, the European Union’s executive arm recommended that Ukraine become a candidate to join the bloc, adding momentum to a campaign that has grown more urgent in recent months, with leaders and analysts increasingly projecting a years-long war with Russia. Seeking to show support for Ukraine, the council plans to meet in Brussels on Thursday and Friday. Candidate status is the first step down a potentially long path. All 27 members must agree for Ukraine’s case to move forward, but even then, full membership could be years away.

Zelensky also warned that the “truly historic” week could bring retaliatory attacks from Moscow — against Ukraine and its European allies — but he did not offer specifics.

“Obviously, we should expect greater hostile activity from Russia,” Zelensky said. “Purposefully, demonstratively. This week exactly. And not only against Ukraine, but also against other European countries. We are preparing. We are ready. We warn partners.”